Can Stress Cause Neck Pain?
Stress can cause tightness and tension in the muscles, especially those of the neck and shoulders. The more stress a person feels, the tighter the muscles become. When the muscles remain tight for long periods of time, it can cut off the circulation to the area causing extreme pain and discomfort. This tightness can also result in inflammation that forces the musculoskeletal structure out of alignment. Chiropractic adjustments and neuromuscular massage can work to relieve the stress and restore balance in the structure of the neck. Both treatment options work together to keep inflammation to a minimum, effectively reducing neck pain and the headaches that often accompany it.
Can Neck Pain be Successfully Managed Without Surgery?
Unless the structure of the neck is irreparably damaged, most types of neck pain can be successfully managed without surgery. Chiropractic care combined with the use of spinal decompression and neuromuscular massage restore structural balance and blood flow to the injured areas. Increased blood flow brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues of the neck. Spinal decompression relieves the pressure placed on the vertebrae allowing them to move back into their original position. Massage involves the manual manipulation of the soft tissues. This increases flexibility and improves range of motion effectively reducing pain and discomfort.
How Long Does it Take to Recover From a Neck Injury?
The neck is the sole support for the head. It must act as both support and stabilizer. This often results in an injury caused by stress and strain. The muscles of the neck are constantly at work making them an easy target for injury. This is why it takes longer for a neck injury to heal than any other joint. Because the head is constantly in motion, the neck gets very little recovery time. Stress and strain of the neck can take three to four weeks to heal. Injuries like whiplash can take six to eight weeks to heal depending on the severity of the injury. When treatment methods like chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy are used, the healing takes much less time and is more complete.
